Flying visit to Motorrad Zentrum

With the Munich snow finally melting and giving way to the promise of fine spring weather, preparations are fully underway for the New Season Start, which begins on 13 March at the home of BMW Motorrad – and at dealerships across Europe.

Flagship dealership BMW Motorrad Zentrum in Munich has much to look forward to in 2010 and has already delivered its first S 1000 RR machines to customers. The staff at the 9,000 square metres showroom were in for a surprise on Monday 22 February, thanks to a visit from the fastest woman in the world – Leslie Porterfield – who stopped by the BMW AG-owned dealership for lunch and a look around the prestigious store.

Thirty-three-year-old American Leslie, who currently holds motorcycle land speed records in four classes and was recorded at 246.6mph (396.864 km/h) at Bonneville Salt Flats in 2009, had flown into Munich for a special lifestyle photoshoot. The Dallas-based motorcycle dealer and self-confessed speed freak has taken a special interest in the 193 hp S 1000 RR – which is believed to have significant tuning potential – not to mention the fact that it is blisteringly fast in series production version, with speeds in excess of 300 km/h attainable.

For Michael Sommer, Director of the BMW Motorrad Centre, this flying visit from Leslie was a welcome surprise and he was delighted to show her around the dealership, which stretches over several floors and sells new and used BMW motorcycles, as well as displaying the biggest selection of BMW rider equipment in the world.

“It was definitely a great way for us to start the week,” he said. “Because she owns a dealership in downtown Dallas and employs around 20 people, Leslie was really interested to see how we do things over in Europe. We still have our BMW S 1000 RR exhibition running, so it was great to get a picture of the fastest woman in the world, next to one of the fastest motorcycles available currently available to buy.”

The first batch of S 1000 RR machines has already been delivered to customers in January and February, although most of these machines have gone to professionals, such as race team managers who want to develop and use these bikes for various racing activities such as the IDM German Superbike Championship. As winter draws to a close and the new season start is fast approaching, the BMW Motorrad Centre is preparing for some busy months ahead, as Michael explains:

“There’s a lot of demand for the new S 1000 RR and we have many more orders than we’ve bikes available at present. However, those ordering S 1000 RRs now can expect to receive their bikes in July or August, so it’s not too long to wait! We’re focussing a lot of attention on the New Season Start and those who come to visit us will see our S 1000 RR exhibition throughout the dealership. In addition, there will be live music and catering, photo walls, and even a couple of models complete with body paint for photo opportunities. All in all, it promises to be a great start to the season!”